Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said he was extremely disappointed by the Garda Representative Association’s vote of no confidence in his leadership, describing it as “a kick in the teeth” and “a bitter blow”, reports RTE.
About 11,000 ballots were sent to rank-and-file police officers. The vote of no confidence passed with 98.7% in favour and 1.3% against.
Speaking to the media at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Superintendents, Harris said: “I’m hugely disappointed, it does feel like a real kick in the teeth,” reports RTE.
Mr Harris, however, said he would not resign because of the non-binding vote.
He said: “That would be a completely illogical response to the situation,” reports RTE.
Chairman Bob Collins said the GRA’s vote of confidence did not advance the issue of service provision or garda levies, which he believed would be more appropriately addressed through the established industrial relations framework.
The poll results were expected, but the GRA said it was shocked by the margin.
The GRA said the result vindicated the decision to take the vote and said it was a very sad day for the police.
The Justice Minister said it was “regrettable” that rank-and-file members had voted overwhelmingly to express a vote of confidence in Commissioner Harris, reports RTE.
Helen McEntee said she has the commissioner’s “full support”.
Ms McEntee said: “His position is tenable. I have over full support in the commissioner as does this Government. I believe this vote was taken in the midst of an industrial relations dispute, I think that’s reflected in the outcome of the vote,” reports RTE.
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar also expressed confidence in the Commissioner, while the Garda senior management team reiterated their full confidence in Commissioner Harris.
The leadership team, which comprises deputy and assistant commissioners, along with the organisation’s executive directors this morning circulated a message: “The commissioner’s commitment to the welfare of garda personnel, to protecting communities, and keeping the public and the State safe is evident from the many improvements introduced over the last five years with the co-operation of members of An Garda Síochána and garda staff. “From his first day in the role, Commissioner Harris has continually emphasised the importance of An Garda Síochána maintaining its proud tradition of community-focused policing,” reports RTE.
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